Top 5 Ways You are Affecting the Lifespan of Your Roof

Whether you are currently completing construction of a new home, or you are considering the quality of the roof on your current home, there are many factors that affect the lifespan of your roof. A home’s roof is left exposed to environmental factors and weather conditions, and the color, pitch, and direction of your roof all contribute to its longevity. All roofs are not created equal, and homeowners should be cautious when it comes to making the decisions about maintaining an old roof or installing a new one.

In this article, we detail the top five factors that are affecting the lifespan of your roof. It is important to be aware of the things inside your control (and the things you can’t control at all) to ensure that your roof will continue protecting your home for the longest possible time frame.

#1 Location, location, location

It’s the number one rule in real estate, but it is also a huge factor for the lifespan of the roof on your home. Homeowners should be well informed about the climate in their region to choose the best roofing materials for the job. Wetter, rainier climates require different approaches than dry, hot conditions.

If you live in a humid area with lots of precipitation, it is likely that your roof won’t have the same lifespan as a dry, hot area. Understanding the climate and conditions in your area is the first step to preparing your roof for a long life.

#2 Color is key

Once you know the climate in your region, it’s important to consider the color of your roof. Visual appeal takes a back seat to a serious understanding of weather conditions in your area. Darker colors draw in more heat and may lead to more cracking and gradual deterioration. Darker roofs in sunny climates might have a shorter lifespan than lighter colored roofs in the same area.

#3 The right pitch

Pitch refers to the incline or slope of your roof. Pitch matters because it helps with drainage and heavy precipitation. Higher pitched roofs tend to have longer lifespans, but roof pitch also tends to follow regional or even neighborhood trends. Do your research and don’t be afraid to ditch social norms for a better investment.

#4 Ventilation

Homeowners may have never considered roof ventilation, but it is a key component in the lifespan of your roof. Properly ventilated roofs handle all weather conditions better and control moisture effectively.

#5 The direction of your home

Roof orientation determines how much sun exposure the house receives. South-facing roofs see more sun than north-facing roofs, which can have positive implications for solar panel use, but may be a negative for roof durability. Identifying the orientation of your home, particularly for new constructions, can have a big impact on the lifespan of your roof.

No matter the roof type, color, or pitch, roof maintenance and care is one of the biggest ways to ensure a long lifespan. Inspections, particularly after adverse weather, can help you identify potential problems before they get worse.